Mothers offer career advice

Whether your mother was a stay-at-home mom or a working professional, her advice probably influenced your career in a number of ways. According to a study on working mothers commissioned by Working Mother magazine, it is estimated that 68 percent of married mothers work outside the home today. The number rises to 75 percent among mothers who are divorced, single or separated. The study included over 2,100 men and women with focus on three generations: baby boomers, generation X-ers and millennials.

In honor of Mother’s Day, I thought it would be interesting to ask a variety of professionals covering three generations about the best career advice their mother gave them. Here is some of the advice their mothers gave them:

“My mother told me that people at work are always listening to what you say and do as much as what you don’t say and do. Your actions speak louder than words.” – Rebecca

“You only have one chance to make a first impression. Dress to impress.” – Shelly

“It’s great that you can work; however, God didn’t intend for work to be your whole life. Your family comes before work.” – Susan

“Choose a job that makes you happy regardless of what anyone else does.” – Lee

“Always be true to yourself.” – Lindy

“If you can’t say something nice about someone, it’s best not to say anything at all.” – Grace

“When you are nervous at work and start comparing yourself to others, stop and remember you are great just the way you are.” – Lela

“When you start complaining, remember that only 10 percent of people really care, 80 percent don’t want to hear you complain and the other 10 percent are glad that you are.” – Robert

“Fake it till you make it.” – Kelly

“I grew up watching my grandmother get up before dawn, sewing a quilt, making breakfast and preparing for dinner all before starting work. She was promoted twice and won several awards for her customer service. She taught me about making everyone feel special and how applying the golden rule kept customers returning.” – Ann